Answer:

There are a few things I'd like to mention before I get straight to your answer. If
your mother's cough is accompanied by other symptoms, such as
fever, chills,
sore throat, or other systemic
symptoms, she should be assessed by a physician. Likewise, is she is coughing up phlegm
(sputum) that is thick, green or
excessive in amount, she should be seen by a doctor. In addition, if
she identifies triggers, such as dander, or pollen, this may be more than a
simple cough, and should be investigated. Finally, it is common sense that she and anyone
with diabetes (or without diabetes, for that matter) should not smoke.

There are over-the-counter remedies available
without sugar, and if in doubt, your pharmacist should be able to point you in
the right direction. In particular, Benylin Adult is sugar and alcohol
free, and provides some relief from a non-productive (dry) cough. This
should not be used in conjunction with MAOIs,
in pregnancy or in nursing mothers. The active ingredient in
this formula is Dextromethorphan, and it is PPA free. Another possibility
is Robitussin CF. This preparation has been re-formulated to be PPA free,
and now contains pseudoephedrine instead. The other active ingredient is
dextromethorphan, and together, this preparation helps to suppress cough and
also helps to expectorate (which means it makes the bringing up of phlegm
easier). Robitussin CF is sugar free and alcohol free. It should be
used with caution in patients with high blood pressure or
heart disease, and should be avoided in
patients on MAOIs. This medication is not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers.

There are other stronger medications available, but these should be taken on the advice of
a physician after a full assessment. It there is no improvement in
symptoms within 5 days, your mother should be seen by her primary doctor for
further evaluation.

Thank you for your question.

Last Editorial Review: 11/30/2011

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